My design process is implemented through a series of stages, acting much like a road map that guides a project from start to finish.

THERE IS MORE TO DESIGN THAN JUST MAKING SOMETHING LOOK PRETTY.

OK well a lot of it is about making things look pretty, but good design is really about problem solving, so before I can get to work on the fun stuff I like to really get to know my clients and their businesses in order to fully understand the objectives of the project in hand. Once these goals have been established, we can begin to to look for solutions.

So how do we go about getting to know a client and identifying their requirements?

Read on...

DESIGN PROCESS.

Having a design process enables me to work through the problems my clients are facing and through research, find the best solution for them.

Although the actual design process can vary from project to project, the basic structure is as follows:

Research

All projects kick of with this essential stage and this is how a designer gets to know his clients, their industry, competition and their objectives. This whole process begins with the completion of the Project planner.

Planning

This is where the ideas are generated that will go on to form the project strategy and design direction. Problems identified during the research are addressed now. Content is created and is structured in the simplest possible way. Wireframes are created to begin the process of fleshing out websites.

Design

The purpose of the design phase is to turn the great ideas from the planning stage into fantastic looking products that fulfil client goals, offers excellent user experience and above all... work!

Development

Once the designs have been signed off, work starts on the website build. Websites are designed to work on desktops, tablets and smart-phones as required using the best of current technologies, usually that means HTML5, CSS3 and JQuery.

Testing

All websites are tested and made ready to roll in latest versions of Safari, Firefox, Opera and Internet explorer. Mobile sites are tested on a number of common mobile devices. Logos and other graphic elements will need to work in a number of different formats and scenarios.

Deployment

The big day! Once everything is ready and has been checked, checked and checked again, we go live!

Training

A new website is of little use to you if you don't know how to use it. That's why full instructions or training (if required) is provided to help you to get the most from your new website.

Support

After the design of a new website or logo a business doesn't stand still and so neither should the relationship between a designer and his clients. So if something isn't working out or you find yourself with a problem, rest assured, I'm here to help.

PROJECT STAGES

A typical web project (should such a thing exist) can usually be divided into the following 4 stages:

Pre-contract stage.

All projects get started with a project planner. The completed project planner is used as a starting point to collect enough information to quote on your job.

When l get the go ahead on the quote, we sign a contract, you pay a deposit fee and we are ready to start the design process that will lead to your new website, logo, brand etc.

Design stage.

This stage involves researching you and your project, planning, information architecture, creating content and building wire frames as well as designing the look and feel of the site. This phase is followed by a stage payment.

Development stage.

Upon completion of the design phase the website is built and thoroughly tested on all devices and browsers specified in the contract. This phase is also followed by a stage payment.

Deployment stage.

Once the website is fully tested and final payment has been received the website goes live and ownership is transferred to the client. Any training or user guides will be provided before the launch date.

Support is provided as per the terms outlined in the contract.

STAGE PAYMENTS

I bill for the projects I work on through a series of stage payments. Typically they are billed at the milestones shown below although this can be adapted for small or very large projects.

Deposit (30%)

Approval of design (30%)

Completion of build (30%)

Launch (10%)

NEXT STEPS

Now that you know a little more about me and have seen the way I work why not get in touch to discuss your project.